Chapter 15 – Scheme
"Alright, everyone, status report. What have you got for me?"
"…East section, clear."
"No problem in Minano's west section either."
"I'm not picking up anything from the north section. I'm moving to the south section next."
"Everything seems alright so far…"
Rias remarked. She and the other members of her Peerage were currently inside their temporary base in Minano, observing the city and its surroundings through the eyes of their familiars. Although no abnormalities had been detected so far, Rias couldn't help but feel anxious for some reason.
I suppose one cannot relax when potential enemies are right next to your doorstep.
Rias reasoned, conjuring several magic circles around her and focusing on the images projected on them. They depicted the state of the city as it had been captured through the eyes of their familiars over the previous hour. Although unlikely, it was possible that she and her servants had missed something, which was why she was doublechecking.
"Takeshi-kun is running a bit late." Akeno commented. "Shouldn't he be here helping us as well?"
"…He'd better not be slacking off."
Koneko added from the side, prompting Yuuto to chuckle.
"That's unlikely." Yuuto said. "We all know how diligent Takeshi-kun is. He's probably just as worried as we are and doing his best in his own way. I'm really looking forward for this incident to end, so we can all get back to our everyday routine."
"That's a sentiment we all share." Rias said. "While I appreciate having an extra pair of eyes on the field, I still don't think it's safe for Takeshi to be out there on his own. I'll wait for twenty more minutes and call him back then. He should have—"
Rias's words were cut off as she took notice of something at the edge of one of the recordings. She stopped the recording and magnified it, focusing on the oddity there.
"That's…"
Meanwhile, near the mountaintop…
"One more down…"
Takeshi remarked, pulling his axe out of a Stray Exorcist's dead body. Following his encounter with Freed and his group, Takeshi had slain six more Exorcists while making his way to the top, wary the whole time about ambushes or hidden traps. So far, other than the Exorcists, he hadn't encountered anything else, which only served to heighten his unease.
"Still, it's not like I can take my time here."
Resolving himself, Takeshi spread his wings and took flight once again, aiming straight for the mountaintop and, hopefully, Pandora's location. He kept his eyes peeled, but there was no sign of movement below. In a manner of seconds, he arrived at a wide clearing which allowed one to view the whole city spreading out in the distance. The only thing of note was the gaping crater ahead of him. Other than that, the area seemed deserted.
"No-one's here?" Takeshi frowned as he landed, his wings retracting themselves. "Either they gave up and ran back home with their tails between their legs, or…"
Takeshi trailed off as several large magic circles flared up around him, enclosing him and a wide portion of the clearing inside a crimson barrier.
"…Or it's a trap."
"An astute observation, Evil Dragon User."
Zephon said as he descended from the sky alongside Turel, with Takeshi narrowing his eyes at the sight of the latter.
"You." Takeshi said as several Stray Exorcists emerged from the nearby foliage, surrounding the barrier. "You were alive after all. So, you two were working together from the start. I suppose you guys tricked us by staging his death alongside that female Fallen Angel?"
"Correct." Zephon said. "It was quite the performance, don't you think?"
"You Devils have caused us far more trouble than we first anticipated." Turel said. "You located us and attacked the parking building in Minano before the ritual was complete, and now, you went on a rampage on our base here just as we were putting the finishing touches on our plan B. It seems the Gremory group has a knack for inconvenient timing."
"However, it was foolish of you to come here alone." Zephon said. "We've been observing your base ever since you first set foot on this mountain and there's been no sign of movement, meaning this isn't a coordinated assault. Tell me, what possessed you to attack us on your own? Was it your instinct talking, or were you so eager to do battle that you couldn't help yourself?"
"Why don't you come down here, and I'll whisper the answer in your ear?"
"No, I think I'll stay where I am." Zephon said. "Still, your arrival here is right on time. We can test Plan B on you before we unleash it on your fellow Devils in Minano, and then in Kuoh."
"I don't know what this Plan B of yours is, but it's not going to work." Takeshi said. "President and the others will see you coming from a mile away."
"Don't be so sure." Turel smirked. "You see, we hid a little surprise inside Pandora that your comrades missed. A subtle, yet powerful self-replicating spell sequence designed to spread out and erode your defensive magic circles, turning them into anti-teleportation spells. Think of it as a computer virus. Once we give the signal, your entire defense network in Minano will collapse at once, leaving your comrades exposed and trapped."
"Ah, right on time." Zephon said as he checked a tablet he was holding. "Looks like calibration is complete. I will be looking forward to an exciting performance, Evil Dragon User."
A sound reminiscent of an engine powering up was heard, followed by a rumbling that shook the entire clearing. Takeshi turned his sights on the crater behind him, from where the sounds seemed to be coming from. The rumbling intensified as small cracks started to form on the ground.
"That doesn't sound good…"
Takeshi remarked, taking flight in order to escape from the tremors. Narrowing his eyes at the crater, he noticed something moving within it. The next moment, a heat blast was shot out of the crater, with Takeshi barely evading it. Following that, a gigantic shape jumped out of the crater, landing a few meters away from Takeshi.
"What in the nine circles of Hell is that thing!?"
What stood there was a seven-meter tall mechanical monstrosity of some sorts. It was colored black and red with a long and thick torso, an elongated and narrow head with smoke coming out of its 'mouth', a pair of large wings with four mechanical feather-like constructs attached to each wing, and a spider-like lower half. A long and thick wire with a large blade at its end was attached to its lower half's rear, flicking around in a lazy manner. However, what caught Takeshi's attention was something else.
"Pandora…"
Although barely visible, the figure of Pandora could be seen inside the machine's torso, several cables and restrains attached to her body, which was letting out a soft glow.
"Evil Dragon User, meet the Tarshish, the Grigori's prototype war machine designed by one of our Cadres." Turel said. "What do you think? Impressive, no?"
"I think that your Cadres have been watching way too much Gundam." Takeshi snorted. "But if you think a mobile armor-like robot such as this will stop me, you've got another thing coming. I'll be taking Pandora back now."
"Ah, so you came for Pandora then." Zephon laughed. "Has our little Calamity Witch charmed yet another victim? In that case, you'll share in the misfortune of all those caught in the webs of her tragic destiny! Tarshish, switch to extermination mode!"
The massive war machine's head opened up, revealing a large cannon within it. Another massive heat blast erupted from it, almost shooting Takeshi down. Before he could recover, Tarshish's tail was upon him, the large blade swatting him aside like a fly and sending him crashing on the ground.
"Ow…" Takeshi groaned. "All right then, if that's how you want to play, I'm game! You will be eradicated without fail!"
Generating a large amount of ashes, Takeshi shaped them into four massive fists that rained down on Tarshish. The machine responded by opening its feathers, revealing small cannons contained within each of them that shot blasts of pressurized air. The ashes were scattered at once, with the ensuing water blasts launched from the cannons hardening them and rendering them useless.
However, Takeshi was already on the move, his miasma-covered axe raised as he aimed at Tarshish's legs. A small electric barrier appeared before him, blocking the attack. Takeshi dashed to the left and attacked from another angle, but the barrier formed once again to block him. Another strike on the head had the same result.
In response, Tarshish's tail descended from above, aiming to bisect Takeshi. He evaded it, only to find himself in one of the cannons' line of fire, receiving several thunder-clad bullets that sent him crashing on the ground convulsing.
"Shit…"
Moving on instinct, Takeshi swung his miasma-enveloped axe, releasing several crescent-shaped miasma waves. However, Tarshish evaded them all with speed unbefitting of its large frame and counterattacked by digging its feet on the ground and raising several earth spikes that almost skewered the young Devil.
"The integration of combat data has proven invaluable indeed." Turel said while checking his tablet. "The Tarshish is responding to the Evil Dragon User by drawing on its knowledge of his attack patterns to calculate the appropriate response. And it's revising its data on real time by recording his movements during battle. Fascinating indeed. Just what you'd expect from Sahariel-sama."
"The power output is also stable." Zephon remarked. "Pandora is doing a good job at attracting the nearby Spirits and converting them into a power source through the Spiritron Engine. There are no signs of them going berserk either. I should thank the Evil Dragon User. This has proved to be an excellent test before the main event."
Said Evil Dragon User was busy dodging for dear life, Tarshish's attacks getting closer and closer to him. Takeshi could tell that the machine was reading his moves somehow, but wasn't sure how.
Either way, it doesn't matter! Takeshi thought, deflecting several thunderbolts aimed at him, followed by Tarshish's tail blade. My energy is almost depleted! I've got to do something now, or I'm finished! And after me, it's the others! At least that…I won't let that happen!
Solidifying his resolve, Takeshi pressed his buckle's sides once while generating and directing a large amount of ashes inside the cracks on the ground.
[Charge! Malice Overflow!]
Large amounts of miasma, ashes and demonic power gathered around Takeshi's leg as he flew towards Tarshish with all the speed he could muster. At the same time, numerous ash tendrils erupted from the ground below Tarshish and bound the machine's legs and tail, causing it to stumble for a moment.
"Abyss Blast Fever!"
Takeshi shouted as he sailed through the air. But just as Takeshi's flying side kick was about to connect with Tarshish's head, the machine released several wind blasts from vents all over its body and blew itself to the side. As a result, Takeshi's strike missed its mark, breaking parts of the torso armor instead and hitting the barrier, tearing down almost all layers except for one.
"Damn it…"
Takeshi cursed as he fell on the ground, his armor vanishing. His Balance Breaker had reached its operational limit.
"An A for effort, but an E for result." Zephon said. "Looks like even the dreaded Evil Dragon User is no match for our technology. Shame we can't mass produce these things as of yet. Would be very useful for the coming war."
"Not against the heavy hitters of each side." Turel said. "Plus, without someone like Pandora powering it, it wouldn't be as effective. But it serves the purpose we require here, and that's all that matters. I'm a little concerned about whether it can handle the heiresses, but if we support it, there should be no issue."
Meanwhile, Takeshi was groaning as he forced himself to stand up despite his shaking, glaring at the machine in front of him.
"Looks like…victory was not an option for me this time…"
Takeshi said with a bitter smile. With no access to his Balance Breaker, his reserves almost depleted, his vision blurry, his breath coming out in short gasps and his body feeling like it was made out of lead, he didn't like his chances. However, he was still determined to fight to the bitter end.
[At least you're not sniveling like some other weaklings did when their time came.] Grendel said. [I've got to give you some respect for that at least. But you're still a fool. If I was the one out there, you wouldn't have lost.]
[Are you implying you are stronger than me, Grendel?] Nidhogg hissed. [Don't make me laugh.]
[Hah!] Grendel laughed. [Looks who's getting a big head knowing I can't get to him in this state! If we both had our bodies, I'd…]
"I'm going to die with two Evil Dragons arguing in my head…" Takeshi muttered as he took his stance, the Tarshish powering up its weapons. "Certainly not how I imagined I'd go…"
"Time to end this." Turel said. "Tarshish, switch to—"
"Trouble, Turel-sama!" One of the Exorcists cried out at that moment. "There's a reaction from the barrier outside! It's—!"
The Exorcist's words were interrupted as a large number of exploding swords and thunderbolts fell from the sky, bombarding the Grigori agents' position. Turel and Zephon conjured several magic circles to defend themselves, but their underlings weren't so lucky as they received the full brunt of the attack, their screams echoing in the night as their bodies were torn apart. A large black orb also appeared above the barrier enclosing Takeshi and Tarshish within its confines and fell on it, shattering it with ease. A familiar girl landed in front of Takeshi, her crimson hair billowing in the night wind.
"President…?"
Takeshi muttered in disbelief, almost certain his mind was playing tricks on him.
"Looks like you landed yourself in serious trouble, Takeshi." Rias said, glancing back at the still dumbstruck Takeshi. "We'll be having a nice, long discussion later about your actions tonight. But for now, let's focus on ending this battle. Akeno!"
"We're on it, President!"
A couple more thunderbolts fell from the sky, splitting up Turel and Zephon. Akeno came to hover in front of the former, while Yuuto and Koneko surrounded the latter.
"I'm leaving these two to you." Rias said, turning her sights back to Tarshish. "I'll deal with this contraption myself."
[Yes!]
"Aren't you confident." Turel sneered, conjuring twelve light spears that came to hover around him in a circular formation as he faced Akeno. "Tarshish, adjust primary target to Rias Gremory! Take her down, and then eliminate the Evil Dragon User!"
Tarshish's sensors lit up, its cannons and tail blade all aiming at Rias. With a thundering sound, a barrage of elemental attacks was launched at her. Rias was undeterred as she conjured a large number of defensive magic circles to defend herself and Takeshi. At the same time, Tarshish's tail blade shot forward, slashing at the barriers from different locations in an attempt to exploit potential openings.
"Not bad for an oversized toy." Rias let out a lopsided smile, struggling to maintain the barriers against the incoming onslaught. "Seekvaira would be very excited if she was here, I'm sure…"
"President…that thing is using Pandora as its power source!" Takeshi shouted to make himself audible over the bombardment. "Also, I think it can predict our moves to an extent! The Fallen Angels must have studied our battles over the past few days!"
"Interesting…" Rias muttered as several of her barriers faltered and shattered. "In that case, I'll have to do something it won't expect. I was hoping I would have to rely on this, but…"
Rias made a resolute expression, placing her hand, which was covered in crimson aura, over her chest. The next moment, her demonic power suddenly flared up, with the aftershock sending Takeshi flying back and crashing on a nearby rock. Aiming at Tarshish, Rias shot a massive beam of Destruction from her hand that vaporized the incoming tail blade and tore through its deployed electric barrier, destroying a part of its left wing. The Tarshish stumbled for a bit before regaining its balance, taking flight to open the distance from Rias.
"President, this is…" Takeshi said with an amazed expression as he stared at Rias, who was surrounded by a large torrent of demonic power. "Your power…it jumped to near Ultimate-class level all of a sudden. How's this possible?"
"The Gremory family's…trait." Rias grimaced, blood trickling from her nose and mouth. "I don't have a lot of time…so I'll put an end to this quickly!"
Rias said as she spread her wings and took off, chasing after Tarshish.
"How surprising." Turel said, observing the fight between Rias and the machine. "This is power beyond our calculations. Could it be…?"
"Ara, are you sure you can afford to be distracted, Fallen Angel!?"
Akeno shot a large thunderbolt at Turel, but two light spears crossed in an X formation shielded him from the attack. Several others aimed at Akeno, forcing the young Queen to dodge for dear life or shield herself with defensive magic circles. She attempted to shoot them down with demonic power attacks, but the spears were moving as if they had a mind of their own, dodging Akeno's attacks before aiming at her once again.
He's skilled. Akeno thought, making an aerial backflip to dodge two incoming spears and forming a defensive magic circle above her to deflect another. Those remote-controlled light spears of his are slowly driving me into a corner. If I don't find a way to break out of this, I'm finished. Perhaps…
Gathering her power and waiting for the light spears to approach her as close as possible so that they wouldn't be able to evade in time, Akeno unleashed an oversized thunderbolt that blew them away before heading straight for Turel. The Fallen Angel merely flicked his hand, rearranging the remaining light spears into a wall formation that shielded him once again.
"Not bad." Turel said, reforming the destroyed light spears. "But that way of using thunder… There's something eerily familiar about it. Have we met somewhere before, girl?"
"No." Akeno said, glaring at her opponent. "If we had, you'd already be dead!"
Several demonic power blasts were shot at Turel, with his light spears tearing through them before aiming for Akeno once again.
"Take this!"
Yuuto shouted as Grudge Dent, his bone-like Demonic Sword, unleashed a crescent-shaped wave of demonic power. However, Zephon, who had four arm-shaped light constructs growing from his shoulders and abdomen, deflected it with a swipe. Koneko aimed at a punch at his left side, her body surrounded by a thin sheet of white aura, but several light threads aimed at her forced to adjust her direction and roll out of the way.
"What's wrong, little Devils?" Zephon grinned, his arm constructs twitching as several light threads extended from their clawed fingers. "Why aren't you coming closer? You won't be able to beat me if you don't."
Yuuto frowned, exchanging a glance with Koneko. Despite how fragile they seemed, the light threads were strong enough to cut through Yuuto's swords and Koneko's Touki-enhanced body. He had attempted to mitigate their effectiveness by using several copies of Holy Eraser, but the threads had sliced through them before they could do anything.
"If you won't come, then don't mind if I do!"
Zephon shouted, dashing forward and delivering a flurry of jabs with his arm constructs. Koneko moved out of the way, while Yuuto formed a Needle Edge. Pointing his sword at Zephon, he launched its blade at it, but one of the arm constructs batted it aside while another aimed at Yuuto. The Knight shielded himself with a broadsword, but was blown back by the aftershock, conjuring a new sword and using it to steady himself. Meanwhile, Koneko gathered her Touki in her fists and charged. Several light threads surrounded her and aimed to slash her, but Yuuto conjured Cyclone Call, using a wind burst to launch Koneko up and straight into Zephon.
The Nekomata's blow tore through one of the constructs, but nothing more than that as Zephon deftly evaded her. The remaining three hands aimed at her, but an earth wall rose in from of her, courtesy of Yuuto's Demonic Sword, shielding her. Grabbing one of its broken parts, Koneko threw it at Zephon. The Fallen Angel shattered it and jumped back to avoid a wave of flames emitted from Yuuto's Demonic Sword, reforming his destroyed hand. At the same time, Koneko stepped back, landing next to Yuuto.
"Solid teamwork." Zephon smiled as he spread both his arms and his arm constructs, generating more and more light threads. "However, it seems you're no match for me, young Devils. You're almost trapped."
Yuuto and Koneko were alarmed to see that a large number of light threads were encircling the area. More threads were slowly being formed out of the existing ones, boxing them in. Soon, they wouldn't be able to move without being sliced by the light threads.
"He must have set this up while we were fighting." Yuuto let out a cramped smile. "Having a few extra limbs is quite the advantage…!"
"…However, we can't give up here."
Koneko raised her fists, a resolute expression on her face.
"Yes, that's right!"
Yuuto said, conjuring several Blast Ogres around him and throwing them at Zephon. The Fallen Angel smirked as he generated more threads, knocking them aside as they exploded all around him.
"Such desperate measures won't be enough to bring me down!"
Zephon said as he charged at the two Devils. Meanwhile, in the sky above…
"I'm close to my limit…!"
Rias said through gritted teeth as she dodged Tarshish's elemental blasts while countering with her own. Although one of her earlier blasts had vaporized half of the machine's right wing as well, she had been unable to inflict any more damage as it had started predicting her attack patterns and dodging accordingly. If she had more time and wasn't as limited as she was, she was certain she could bring it down, but these were luxuries she couldn't afford.
"Looks like I have no choice, but to push myself a bit more!"
Rias declared, forming two crimson arrows in her left hand. She shot one of them above Tarshish, followed by a large wave of Destruction from her right. The machine flew up to evade, but slammed on an invisible barrier. As such, it was too slow to react as the second arrow struck its exposed torso, where Pandora was. The soft glow surrounding the girl died down, with Tarshish's movements slowing down as it switched to auxiliary power. Rias didn't miss this opportunity, shooting several oversized orbs of Destruction at Tarshish. Most of its head, legs and the remainder of its wings were vaporized, with its damaged remains crashing on the ground.
"I did it…"
Rias smiled, but then convulsed and made a rough landing, spitting blood from her mouth. At the same time, the aura surrounding her vanished, leaving her trembling on the ground.
"President!" Takeshi cried out, rushing to her side. "Are you alright!?"
"I'm…I'm alright." Rias winced, wiping the blood from her mouth. "Just need a minute…to catch my breath. Ugh, scratch that. I'll probably need a dozen or so…"
"What was that?" Takeshi said. "Your power skyrocketed all of a sudden."
"A gamble." Rias said. "One that fortunately paid off. Get Pandora out of that machine. I've sealed her power for now, but there's no telling what might happen if she regains it even with the machine at this mangled state."
"Will do."
Takeshi said as he rushed to the remains of Tarshish.
"Damn Gremory bitch!" Turel snarled upon seeing the destroyed Tarshish. "You know how long it took us to build that thing, how hard it was to acquire the schematics and materials!? I—!"
"Where are you looking!?"
Turel grimaced as Akeno's thunderbolt tore through a couple of light spears in its path and barely missed his head.
"And then, there's this." Turel said as he reformed his destroyed light spears and sent them at Akeno once again. "Sorry, little Devil, but I cannot play around with you anymore. I must attend to your master before she regains her strength. Therefore, it's time for you to perish!"
The light spears chasing after Akeno raised their speed, with the young Queen finding it harder and harder to evade them. She conjured several defensive magic circles to shield herself, but the light spears kept tearing them apart with ease.
Just a little more…!
Akeno thought, forming ice crystals and rock spears to intercept the incoming light spears. Maneuvering through the light spears, Akeno approached as close to Turel as she could before snapping her fingers, releasing a blinding light from her body. Turel cursed as he was temporarily dazed. However, he was still capable of reading Akeno's energy signature, which was charging from the front.
"Such a foolish ploy…"
Smirking, Turel sent most of his light spears at that direction, piercing her all over. His smile turned into shock through upon realizing that what his spears had pierced was pure demonic power in the shape of a person. The construct exploded, taking down the ten light spears embedded in it.
"What…?"
Before he could register what had happened, a blade made out of demonic power and enveloped by thunder pierced though his chest from the back.
"Ara, ara, did you let your guard down?" Akeno smirked. "Tsk, tsk. An almighty Fallen Angel such as you should have known better."
"You…bitch!"
Turel cursed, sending his remaining light spears at her as he dashed away from Akeno, cradling his wound. Shooting two thunderbolts, Akeno destroyed the light spears before turning his attention to Turel.
"The decoy…was meant to trick my senses…" Turel heaved. "You placed…the majority of your demonic power in it…suppressed your aura…and made a micro jump at the same time…behind me…"
"Correct." Akeno clapped. "It wasn't easy to concentrate and set this up while bombarded from all angles, but I managed. Also, don't bother gathering your power. I missed your heart, but I cut through several of the major networks that transport your holy power throughout your body. I've exhausted most of my power, but I have enough left for this!"
Akeno gathered the entirety of her remaining power as electricity surged throughout her body. Much to his shock, Turel sensed something familiar in this attack.
"This is…traces…of light…?" Turel's eyes opened wide as the realization sunk in. "I see! There's no mistake! You are…Baraqiel-sama's—!"
The large thunderbolt that erupted from Akeno's fingers silenced Turel, turning his body into a charred mess in a manner of seconds.
"Don't mention that name in front of me."
Akeno said with a severe expression as Turel's blackened corpse fell to the ground, his remaining black feathers floating in the sky.
"They even got Turel…" Zephon grimaced. "Blasted Devils!"
Zephon generated six light spears, throwing them at Yuuto and Koneko with all his arms. The two Devils dodged them, barely avoiding the light threads in their way as well. Nodding at each other, Koneko and Yuuto rushed at Zephon once again. Yuuto summoned both Grudge Dent and Cyclone Call, drawing upon all his power and surrounding himself in a storm of demonic power and wind that tore through two of Zephon's arms before he could react.
Following up from behind, Koneko's Touki-enhanced strike shattered the third, and just as Zephon was about to counterattack and strike Koneko with several threads, she vanished, with a copy of Blast Ogre taking its place. While holding a new Demonic Sword in its left hand, Yuuto grinned as the ensuing explosion took out Zephon's remaining hand, which was used to shield the Fallen Angel.
"It's useless!" Zephon cried out as he started reforming his hands. "You two can't—"
At that moment, a thorn erupted from the ground, wrapping itself around Zephon's leg. The Fallen Angel let out a cry of pain, feeling as if his whole body had caught on fire. Wasting no time, Yuuto conjured another Cyclone Call and blasted Koneko at Zephon, her fist burying itself in the Fallen Angel's stomach.
"Gah!"
Zephon convulsed and spat out blood, his reforming hands breaking apart as the internal damage and loss of concentration impaired him. Koneko delivered a kick to the side of his head and followed with an overhead chop, sending the Fallen Angel tumbling to the ground. Before he could recover, Yuuto was on him, burying Grudge Dent into his chest. Zephon shrieked, but was promptly silenced as Yuuto decapitated him, his head rolling to the side.
"With this, we're done." Yuuto said, dismissing his blades and wiping the sweat from his brow as the light threads around the area vanished. "Are you alright, Koneko-chan?"
"…I'm fine." Koneko said. "What was that vine?"
"One of my Demonic Swords, Phantom Pain." Yuuto said, pointing at the spot where he had buried the sword he had used to steady himself after receiving Zephon's blow earlier. "It can create thorns that inflict an illusion of pain when striking an opponent. The thorn burrowed itself underground while we were fighting and struck the Fallen Angel at just the right moment."
"…Neat." Koneko said. "And the other one? The one that switched me and your Demonic Sword?"
"Instant Swap." Yuuto said. "That's a new one that instantly exchanges the positions of objects or people with demonic power within a short range. It's a bit too draining though, so I can't use it too often. Thankfully, just one time was enough."
"…Yuuto-senpai is getting stronger." Koneko said. "Admirable."
"It doesn't seem we can afford not to." Yuuto let out a strained smile. "Strength is necessary, since, for whatever reason, trouble seems to come after us a lot lately."
"…That's true."
Koneko nodded as she and Yuuto rejoined Rias and Akeno. Takeshi also joined them, carrying the unconscious Pandora in his arms.
"How's Pandora?"
"She seems alright, just out of it." Takeshi said. "What about you, President? Are you feeling better? And what was that back there?"
"The Gremory Clan's trait, Lock Control." Rias said. "It allows us to manipulating the concept of locking and unlocking in various ways. For instance, I used it on myself to unlock some of the natural limiters on demonic power generation and circulation, raising my total power. I also used it to seal Pandora's power, as well as lock the air above that machine and make it immovable, which was why it was trapped."
"By the Devil Kings…" Takeshi whistled. "That sounds like a really useful ability with a lot of interesting applications."
"It does…but it's one that I cannot fully control yet as you can see." Rias said. "It takes a lot of demonic power and puts quite a bit of strain on my body as I've told you before. Plus, the sealing effects won't work on beings with strength comparable to mine or higher, so its effectiveness is limited. But enough about that. More importantly though, mind telling me just what the Hell were you doing here, Takeshi?"
Rias spoke with a disapproving tone, her gaze cold. Takeshi felt a shiver going down his spine, but faced her with an unwavering gaze.
"I attacked the Fallen Angels' base without informing you or asking permission."
"I'm not asking you to state the obvious." Rias shot back. "I'm asking what possessed you to act in such a manner and potentially risk causing a major diplomatic incident with the Grigori organization, especially after Sona and I told you that our leaders are striving for peace."
"Pandora." Takeshi glanced at the unconscious girl in his arms. "After hearing what she went through, the harsh life she's led…I just couldn't leave her behind to be used or potentially killed because of what she is. She is…too similar to me."
"Too similar…?" Rias groaned, rubbing her head. "Even so, that doesn't excuse you running off on your own and almost getting yourself killed. If one of our familiars hadn't caught a glimpse of you flying in your Scale Mail, we wouldn't be here now, and you'd be dead most likely. Pray tell, what exactly was your brilliant plan had you succeeded here on your own and this was actually a legitimate mission from Grigori?"
"Well…" Takeshi hesitated. "We could always pin the blame on the Fallen Angels, say that they had attacked us and we retaliated. No-one could disprove this since they would all be dead. Or, you could just pin the blame on me, say I had gone rogue."
"So, it was either lying through our teeth, which would have been exposed quite fast, or you being labelled a Stray." Rias narrowed her eyes at Takeshi. "Excellent plans indeed. Maybe I should reassign you to Asmodeus-sama's military department. I'm sure that wit of yours would prove invaluable."
"There's no need to be snide." Takeshi said. "I know it was stupid, and I'm ready to accept responsibility for my actions. But…I couldn't just let it go and be tormented by regrets."
"You should have talked to us." Yuuto said. "Perhaps we could have found another way together, one that wouldn't involve you risking everything to help Pandora-san."
"What Yuuto-kun says." Akeno said. "How do you think all of us would feel if we lost you, or if we were ordered to hunt you down? Did you stop to think what sort of position you'd be putting us in, the hurt we would have to endure? Your intentions were good, but you know what they say about Hell and good intentions. Please, please, learn to take care of yourself a bit more."
"…This time, everything worked out." Koneko said. "Next time, they might not. Like Akeno-senpai said, don't try to bear everything on your own. We're a group, no, a family. We help each other."
"You guys sure are merciless…"
Takeshi sighed. He couldn't offer any sort of counterargument. Now that the facts were laid bare in front of him, he couldn't help but admit he'd let his emotions get the better of him without having fully grasped the consequences his actions might have had. Not to mention, there could still be severe consequences for him and the others.
[Who cares?] Nidhogg said. [We had our fun, and you satisfied your greed by claiming that which you desired. For us, it's an absolute win on all fronts. The rest is inconsequential.]
[Yes, that was very enjoyable!] Grendel laughed. [Would have been even better if I was out there, but what to do? There's always next time! I assure you, you will be forced to depend on me when that time comes, and it will be glorious!]
Takeshi was about to respond, but at that moment, Pandora stirred. She opened her eyes with a small groan, looking around in confusion.
"What…happened?" Pandora wondered. "Last thing I remember…I was strapped into a machine of some sorts…and then nothing…"
Looking around, Pandora noticed Takeshi holding her.
"Ryuugamine Takeshi…?" Pandora said, her eyes opening wide. "What…are you doing here…?"
"That's…a bit of a long story." Takeshi said, turning to Rias. "President, are we going to…?"
"Are we going to take her with us?" Rias said. "Might as well. We can't very well leave her here, and we need to ascertain what sort of relationship she has with Grigori. Until then, she will stay in the Occult Research Club. However, if you make a ruckus or try to escape before we sort this out, I won't hesitate to use force. Do you understand, Pandora?"
"I'm still not sure what's going on here…but I have no intention to cause any problems." Pandora said. "From what I can tell…I've already troubled you quite a bit."
"You haven't." Rias said, directing a pointed look at Takeshi. "In any case, I'm tired, wounded and sore all over, and I'd wager it's the same for all of you. Let's just call it a night and return back to the Occult Research Club through the library's magic circle. I have to inform Sona about what just transpired."
"She's going to be angry that we left her out of this." Akeno said. "You should prepare yourself for a scolding, President."
"Better to be scolded by her than have her be involved in all this." Rias said. "My evaluation is one thing, but there's no way I'm letting Sona's reputation take a hit as well. Now, let's go."
"Right."
Akeno said as all members of the Occult Research Club spread their wings and took off.
[Rias Gremory, I assume you are aware as to why you are receiving this call.]
"I have a slight inkling."
Rias responded, a tinge of sarcasm in her voice. Two days after the battle with the Fallen Angels, once classes were finished, the entirety of the Occult Research Club had assembled in their clubhouse. Shortly afterwards, they had been contacted by Lord Vassago, who had a smug expression on his face the whole time.
[In that case, allow mw to enlighten you.] Lord Vassago said. [On behalf of the Assembly and our esteemed Devil Kings, I would like an explanation regarding the events that led to the confrontation with the Fallen Angels outside the human city of Minano.]
"If you're calling me, I presume that you've already contacted Azazel and he has confirmed that he had no knowledge of these rogues' activities." Rias said. "Is that correct?"
[It is…though I am reluctant to take his claims at face value.] Lord Vassago said. [Regardless, the Devil Kings seem to believe that Azazel is sincere, so it's not my place to say anything else. There's also the fact that we discovered a recording of Azazel giving orders to the Fallen Angels that proved to be a fabricated one once our people were done analyzing it. That's not what's important now though, is it?
A cruel smile appeared on Lord Vassago's gaunt face, his crimson eyes gleaming as he continued speaking.
[The report of our agents that handled the post-processing of the battle indicates that your Peerage launched an attack at the Fallen Angels about two days ago, when we still hadn't contacted Azazel to verify his subordinates' claims and there had been no aggressive action from their side yet judging from the records of your surveillance spells. Why is that, I wonder?]
Takeshi felt his spirits sink. He was aware this was the time where he had to pay the price for his thoughtless actions. At this point, he wasn't sure what the Underworld's higher-ups would do to him, but that wouldn't stop him from taking responsibility. But just as he was about to speak—
"My instinct was telling me something was off regarding this whole situation, so I ordered my Peerage to attack the Fallen Angels before they could put whatever plan they had in motion."
Rias said, her expression perfectly even as she faced Lord Vassago. Needless to say, Takeshi was shocked by her lie.
"Wait, that's not—"
Before he could say anything more, Takeshi felt a hand on his shoulder. Turning around, he saw that it was Akeno, who was shaking her head. Meanwhile, Lord Vassago's eyes narrowed as he stared at Rias.
[Your instinct…you say?] Lord Vassago said. [You risked war, or at the very least a major diplomatic incident, because of a hunch? It appears we have overestimated your prowess. Such reckless behavior is unbefitting of a noble Devil of your caliber. Your family will be very disappointed with you, as are we.]
"My family will be glad that I took the initiative and eliminated a threat that could have potentially ended both me and Sona along with our Peerages." Rias said. "That's all that matters in the end."
[It's not that simple, and you know that.] Lord Vassago said. [This sets a bad precedent. We cannot allow every young noble to think they have carte blanche to act however they wish in matters that could affect the Underworld as a whole. As such, you will be punished as an example to all other noble heirs. The Assembly and the Devil Kings have decreed that your family will have to pay a substantial fine, the achievements of your servants in this battle will not be recognized and your overall estimation will be lowered. Moreover, half the rewards from both you and your servants' Devils' Job will be subtracted and offered to the treasury for the next ten years. Do you understand?]
"Yes, I understand." Rias said. "If that is the will of the Assembly, I will obey."
[In my opinion, you're getting off too lightly, but this is not up to me alone.] Lord Vassago said. [Just remember, should something like this occur again, your punishment will not be as lenient. Well then, farewell.]
With that, Lord Vassago's holographic image vanished, with Rias scowling in response.
"That insufferable, stuck-up lowlife…!" Rias spat out. "He was probably getting a kick out of delivering the Assembly's verdict and seeing me and my family being put in a tough spot. If I ever get my hands around his emancipated throat…"
"Easy there, Rias." Akeno said, making a placating gesture. "This isn't the Age of Strife, where members of the seventy-two Pillars slaughtered each other during the dawn of the Underworld without a care in the world. Let's try not to cause another incident so soon."
"I know…" Rias sighed. "I'll just settle for imagining his demise."
"President…why did you lie to him?" Takeshi asked in a hesitant manner. "All this was my fault. If you had just pushed the blame on me, said I went behind your back without your permission—"
"If I had said all that, you'd be en route to prison or the gallows right about now." Rias finished off Takeshi's sentence. "There's no way the nobles opposed to your continued existence wouldn't have pushed for drastic measures to be taken against you. I wasn't about to give them an excuse to condemn you."
"But still…now I've caused everyone trouble because of what I did, even your family." Takeshi said. "Maybe…maybe this is what I deserve."
"It's not." Rias said. "You were reckless, but your heart was in the right place. I cannot condemn you for that. Not to mention, your actions did benefit us in the end since we stopped the Fallen Angels' plan. Also, even if I had laid the blame at your feet, there would still have been some consequences for me on the pretext that I couldn't reign you in."
"Even so…"
"However, don't think there won't be consequences for you from my side." Rias smiled. "For the next five years, the remaining profits you make from your contracts will be distributed among the other Peerage members. Also, you'll be delivering flyers once again for the next ten years. That will remain in effect even when you end up getting a familiar down the line."
Takeshi groaned inwardly. It was bad enough that he had to basically work for free, but being back on the utterly boring flyer delivery duty was Hell for him. However, not once did he consider complaining. All things considered, this was a far more lenient punishment compared to the alternative.
"That's fair." Takeshi said, turning to his fellow Devils and bowing. "Once again, I'm truly sorry for causing trouble for you, everyone. I'll do my best to make things right again, I swear."
"Just try to curb that lone wolf streak of yours, and you'll be fine." Rias said. "Now then, about the other matter. Akeno, could you please escort our guest here?"
"At once, President."
Akeno stepped outside and returned back after a couple of minutes, accompanied by Pandora.
"You asked to see me?"
"I did." Rias said in response to Pandora's question. "Have a seat."
"I would rather stand if you don't mind."
"Suit yourself." Rias said. "I wanted to speak with you regarding your peculiar situation. From what Azazel conveyed to our leaders, the Fallen Angels that recruited you back in Greece were most likely associated with Turel and Zephon. Therefore, headquarters had no knowledge of you since your existence was kept hidden from them. That means you're not considered an official member of Grigori and are not obligated to return to them."
"These Fallen Angels were rogues as well?" Pandora said. "Turel never spoke about them, so I never knew what happened to them. I had assumed they were killed without me realizing it. More importantly however, what happens to me now?"
"That's what we're here to discuss." Rias said. "From what I understand, you don't have a place to call home, do you?"
"No." Pandora shook her head. "All such places are long gone."
"In that case, I have a proposal for you." Rias said. "How would you feel about joining my Peerage and becoming a Devil? We would welcome you with open arms. You can have a home once again, and you'd be safe from those wishing to exploit you for nefarious purposes. This I swear on my family's name."
"I…don't think that's such a good idea." Pandora said. "To begin with, why do you want me? I was your enemy just a couple of days ago. Also, you should be aware of my curse, of how I cannot control my powers, right? Someone like me is only a liability, a disaster waiting to happen. I can't possibly be of use to you. Quite the opposite in fact."
"Someone else here also said the same thing about themselves once or twice." Rias glanced at Takeshi. "But I don't think you should give up without trying your best first. About that whole enemy business, you were only used as a tool by the Fallen Angels. I don't intend to hold this against you."
"But I do." Pandora said. "All these people that have suffered because of me…"
"They have suffered because of your actions, yes, but you have a chance to make things right, help them out as a Devil." Takeshi said. "Dying or exiling yourself in some remote corner of the world isn't going to help anyone, least of all yourself."
"…I know what's it like to be afraid of your power, to hate it with every fiber of your being." Koneko said. "Takeshi-senpai…and Akeno-senpai know this very well too. That's why, you'll be in good company here. We should all do our best to conquer our demons together."
"If you are afraid about harming us, don't." Yuuto smiled. "We're more resilient than you think, and we're all willing to take the risk. It's not like this is the first time we've had this conversation."
Pandora was silent for a few seconds before turning to Rias.
"You still haven't answered my question, Rias Gremory." Pandora said. "Why do you want me to join despite the danger I pose?"
"First, it's because Takeshi was willing to risk his life for you, so I'd like to honor his resolve by having you join our family." Rias said. "It wouldn't sit well with me if something happened to you and everything he did was for nothing. I won't deny that I'm also interested in your power. I'm sure you will be a valuable asset to my Peerage if you can learn to control it. Finally, there's the fact that once I learned about how you've lived your life so far…I couldn't turn my back on you."
"Are you people certain that you are Devils?" Pandora said, faint traces of a smile on her face. "You're a bit too softhearted for beings that represent sin and depravity."
"We Devils take pride in our freedom and being what we wish to be." Rias said with a smile. "So, what's your answer, Pandora?"
"…I'm a little too shameless to refuse such an offer." Pandora said. "If I agree to this though, I have only one condition. Swear that if I ever were to become a threat to all of you…you will put an end to me without hesitating at all. Do we have a deal?"
"We do…as long as you can promise me that you'll do your best so it doesn't come to this." Rias said. "That's fair, no?"
"Very well." Pandora said. "I promise."
"Then, the contract is complete." Rias said, conjuring a magic circle and taking out her Evil Pieces. "There's a Rook, a Bishop and a Knight left. Which one should I use…?"
"Eh, how come there's only one Bishop?" Takeshi asked, taking note of the remaining pieces. "Have you already used the other Bishop on someone, President?"
"I have, but that child's circumstances are rather…unique to put it mildly." Rias said with some hesitation. "That's why you haven't met them yet. I will introduce them at some point though. Now, about the piece…"
After mulling it over for a while, Rias eventually grabbed her Knight piece.
"A Knight with high firepower should be an interesting combination." Rias said. "The Bishop would be suitable as well, but I would like to use this on someone more talented with magic or demonic power if possible. That's why, I'll go with the Knight. Stand in front of me, Pandora."
The raven-haired girl did as Rias asked, with the latter standing across her and holding her Rook piece.
"I order you, Pandora, in the name of Rias Gremory!" Rias declared. "You shall be reborn as a Devil and serve as my arms and legs! You, my Knight, be delighted with your new life!"
The crimson Knight piece flew from Rias's hands and sank inside Pandora. Her body let out a faint glow, with two bat-like wings growing from her back.
"Looks like it was a success." Rias said with a pleased expression. "Welcome to my Peerage and the world of Devils, Pandora."
"…Welcome." Koneko said. "Let's get along from now on."
"Good to have you with us, Pandora-san." Akeno smiled. "If you ever need help with anything, don't hesitate to ask."
"Always great to welcome a new member to our group, especially a fellow Knight." Yuuto said. "We'll be counting on you from now on, Pandora-san."
"Looks like I've finally got a Devil Kouhai." Takeshi grinned. "Stick close to me, Pandora. I'll teach you everything you need to know about our world."
"Glad to see you're so enthusiastic about this, since I was about to suggest that myself." Rias said. "After going to such lengths for her, I expect you to take responsibility until the end. By the way, how old are you, Pandora?"
"I'll be seventeen this June." Pandora said. "Why are you asking, master?"
"Call me President while we're at school grounds." Rias said. "The reason I'm asking is because I want to enroll you in this school. If you're almost seventeen, that means you're a second-year student. I'll talk to the school director about this later, see if I can put you in the same class as Takeshi and Yuuto. Experiencing a normal school life should be a welcome change of pace for you."
"Me going to school…" Pandora said. "Isn't that risky for the rest of the students?"
"From what I understand, your Spirit powers are acting up only when you're consciously using them, right?" Rias said. "In that case, there shouldn't be any problems. As for your Charm, if it leaks out and causes any issues, Takeshi will deal with it since he's apparently immune to it."
"You can leave this to me, President." Takeshi said. "I won't let you down."
"I know you won't." Rias said. "We'll also have to do something about your living quarters, but for now, you're welcome to use the classroom you've been staying in so far as your room. Takeshi, would you please escort Pandora and help her tidy up?"
"Of course."
"We also need to do something about your wardrobe." Rias said. "Akeno, can I leave this to you?"
"It would be my pleasure." Akeno said, licking her lips. "I'm getting excited when thinking of the various ways I can dress up a beauty like Pandora-san, ufufu~."
"Such an intense gaze… I'm feeling a bit scared."
Pandora said, a wary expression on her face as she hid behind Takeshi.
"Now, now, don't frighten our newest recruit, Akeno." Rias chuckled as she stood up. "I will inform Sona of what just transpired in regards to the Assembly's decision and Pandora's new status. Takeshi, once Pandora has settled in, return back to the clubroom at once so we can organize tonight's Devils' Job in Minano. The crisis may have passed, but our work is far from over."
"What about me?" Pandora said. "When will I participate?"
"If all goes well, starting from tomorrow, we'll send you out on contracts." Rias said. "It's a bit soon for a newly Reincarnated Devil, but we need all the help we can get seeing as we're still flooded with requests. But if you feel it's too much for you—"
"No, I'll do it." Pandora said. "I have to start making it up to the residents of that city as soon as possible. In fact, I would like to work without asking for any rewards from them…but that would be a bit too much, wouldn't it?"
"It would go against our creed as Devils." Rias said. "But, if it makes you feel any better, you can donate your earnings to the disaster relief fund in Minano. I'll turn a blind eye to it."
"Thank you very much, President." Pandora said, making a small bow. "I'm grateful for your consideration."
Rias nodded as she left the clubroom, followed by Pandora and Takeshi. Just as they were about to arrive at the classroom she was using, Pandora stopped and turned around, gazing at Takeshi.
"What's the matter?" Takeshi asked. "Did something happen?"
"I still don't understand it." Pandora said. "Why did you come after me? Why risk your life, or risk causing an incident over me, someone you barely know? You, are you perhaps after my body? Trying to make me owe you so you can have your way with me?"
"That's not it!" Takeshi shouted. "It's true you're one of the most beautiful girls I've ever seen, but I would never resort to such measures!"
"Then why?" Pandora insisted. "Is it because, just like President, you couldn't turn your back on me? Even if that's the case, I still don't understand you."
"Because…I couldn't stand the look in your eyes." Takeshi said. "That resigned look that told me you had lost faith in everything. For you who has similar circumstances to mine, I wanted to change that, to show you that hope could still be found…to be the hero that could help you escape your fate. That's why I tried to help you. Well, it didn't work out quite as well as I had thought…"
"Just for that?" Pandora had an amazed expression on her face. "Are you an idiot?"
"Perhaps." Takeshi laughed. "I did end up causing trouble for everyone in the end. But I am glad you are here now. President's Peerage is a good place for misfits like us. Maybe you'll be able to find a reason to keep on fighting and a way to tame your inner demons. From my part, I'll do my best to support you in any way I can, and so will the others. Now, shall we? That room isn't going to clean itself. Or maybe it could, but I don't know a spell for that yet…"
Takeshi said as he started walking once again. Pandora stared at his back for a few seconds before following after him.
"…Maybe…things will be different this time…"
Pandora's almost inaudible whisper, almost like a prayer, was lost in the sounds of the two youths' footsteps.
"What a mess…"
A man sitting inside a large conference room said so with a sigh. He was tall with an average build, black hair, golden bangs, violet eyes and a black goatee. He wore a knee-length dark blue blazer with a lighter blue dress shirt, a black waist coat, a red tie, faded-purple slacks and black dress shoes.
"You can say that again, Azazel. It's a miracle we avoided a major diplomatic incident."
A man sitting across Azazel said so with a scowl on his face. He was almost as tall as his counterpart with the same youthful appearance. He had silvery-white hair, purple eyes and pale skin. His outfit consisted of a purple beret hat, purple trench coat over a black vest, white pants and black boots.
"Let's go over this once again, Shemhazai." Azazel said. "How the blazes could someone steal the incomplete Artificial Sacred Gear prototypes, the battle armor prototypes and the schematics for the Tarshish right under our noses? The research labs housing them only enabled access to a small number of personnel."
"There was also the mysterious disappearance of some of our golems a while back, as well as the false recording of you giving orders to the rogues." Shemhazai said with narrowed eyes. "It's a good thing they weren't able to complete it and eliminate all traces of tampering. All in all, whoever planned this must be very high in our organization's chain of command. I doubt that Middle-class Fallen Angels like Turel and Zephon were the masterminds."
"I still can't believe that Zephon turned against me…" Azazel sighed. "I'm getting dull in my old age. To think I failed to grasp his true intentions after all this time he served at my side…"
"That's all in the past now." Shemhazai said. "What matters is what we do from this point on. It's obvious we have traitors in our midst, Fallen Angels who don't agree with your change of policy over the past centuries. We need to deal with them before they cause another incident, one we won't be able to bounce back from. You must have your suspicions regarding their identity, correct?"
"Ah, how troublesome!" Azazel complained, leaning back on his chair. "I'm on the verge of a major breakthrough in my research, and I have to waste my time chasing after rats. Can't you handle this, Shemhazai? I just need a little more time before—"
"Out of the question." Shemhazai crossed his arms in an X. "You are the Governor General of Grigori, so act like it. This is a crisis that could plunge us into another war if it's not taken care of sooner rather than later."
"I know, I know." Azazel said, making a dismissive gesture. "Tobio and his team should be back at headquarters, right? In that case, that's perfect. Ask him and Lavinia to start investigating all individuals Zephon and Turel came in contact with recently. Also, contact Baraqiel and Armaros. Out of all the Cadres, they're the most trustworthy ones."
"If you say that, am I correct in assuming you believe a Cadre is responsible?"
"It's too soon to tell." Azazel said. "Regardless, this is a good opportunity to purge all the dumbasses who can't see past their own grudges. The last thing we need right now is another messy war, especially considering the latest information we've come across about what lurks in the shadows of this world."
"You can say that again." Shemhazai said as he stood up. "I will relay your orders and increase the security protocols in the labs. No way I'm letting even more of our pet projects be misused like that."
"Ah, I'll leave it to you."
Azazel said as Shemhazai exited the conference room. At the same time, Kokabiel dismissed a magic circle that was displaying the interior of said room. Standing next to him was a tall, burly man wearing grey armor with several dents and scratches throughout it. He had long, wavy blond hair, amber eyes and a handsome face, which was ruined though by the cross-shaped scar on its left side.
"It looks like they're on to us, Kokabiel-sama." The man said. "We've taken measures to cover our tracks, but there's no doubt that the investigation will lead back to us eventually."
"I know that, Gadreel." Kokabiel said. "However, we still have some time before that. Contact Lailah and Nuriel, and tell them to hasten their preparations. The next plan cannot be allowed to fail, which is why I'll be taking the stage personally."
"To think you have to dirty your own hands, Kokabiel-sama…" Gadreel spoke with an anguished expression. "Everything is Turel and Zephon's fault. Their incompetence brought this about. If only they had been more capable…"
"Do not speak ill of the dead." Kokabiel glared at his subordinate. "Turel and Zephon were loyal and brave Fallen Angels that laid down their lives in the service of our cause. They will be remembered…and avenged in due time."
"My deepest apologies, Kokabiel-sama." Gadreel bowed. "I did not mean to upset you."
"It's alright." Kokabiel made a dismissive gesture. "We simply underestimated the Devils. But enough about that. I assume the locations of the three swords in question have been confirmed?"
"Almost." Gadreel said. "The mercenary was able to track two of them down, and he's closing in on the third's location. I was a bit leery working with him considering his hatred for all members of the Three Factions, but it appears my fears were unfounded."
"Hatred is a powerful and useful tool for motivation." Kokabiel grinned. "Especially when it can be directed to serve your cause. He knows that if we succeed, war will erupt, which is something he more than welcomes. That's why he won't turn on us. Once we have what we need with his help, Michael and the Church will be forced to respond."
"And if we play our cards right, the Three Factions will be forced into war for sure this time." Gadreel smiled. "Now, if you'll excuse me, Kokabiel-sama."
Gadreel bowed and left the room, leaving Kokabiel behind. The Fallen Angel Cadre leaned back on his chair and closed his eyes, clasping his hands together as if praying.
"A little longer…" Kokabiel whispered. "Wait just a little longer, everyone. I'll certainly fulfil your will."
Kokabiel declared as he began murmuring something in an almost inaudible voice.
In the Underworld…
"Where could that insufferable brother of mine be…?"
A young girl with long blonde hair tied into twintails with large, drill-like curls and dark blue eyes complained as she walked inside the halls of a large castle.
"You there!" The girl shouted, beckoning at a servant to come closer. "Have you seen my brother Riser? I have been looking everywhere for him."
"Ravel-sama." The servant hastily bowed. "Your brother asked to not be disturbed before dinner. He…was accompanied by his Queen, Yubelluna-sama."
"Why am I not surprised…?" Ravel sighed. "Regardless, I must see him at once. Our father is calling for him."
"Lord Phenex…?" The servant said. "I see. Riser-sama should be in the eastern section's bedroom near the servant quarters."
"Thank you. You are dismissed."
The servant bowed once again before taking his leave. Ravel followed his directions and arrived in front of a large bedroom door. Predictably enough, a lot of moaning and shouting could be heard from inside, prompting Ravel to sigh. She knocked at the door before speaking.
"Riser-oniisama, it's me, Ravel." Ravel said. "Get dressed and come out. Father wishes to speak with you."
The sounds coming from the bedroom stopped as steps echoed. The bedroom door opened, with a tall, handsome man in his mid-twenties that had short blond hair and dark blue eyes emerging from it, fixing his hastily donned clothes. Glancing inside, Ravel took note of Yubelluna, her naked form barely covered by the blanket around her body.
"Father wants to see me?" Riser asked as she and Ravel started walking side by side. "What for? I am…almost sure I haven't done anything to displease him lately."
"Relax, you're not in for a scolding." Ravel said. "We've received a message from the Gremory family's head. It seems…they wish to expedite the agreement between our two families in light of Rias-sama's recent behavior. Father most likely wishes to give you an update regarding our upcoming negotiations since you have a pivotal role in this arrangement."
Upon hearing that, Riser smiled.
"I see." Riser said. "That's wonderful news indeed. Looks like I will have to start looking for the ideal venues for the upcoming ceremony. Oh, and I might need a new suit as well. Also, we can't forget about the guest list. It's my big moment, so everything has to be perfect."
"One thing at a time, brother." Ravel said. "Don't forget that Rias-sama has been…less than enthusiastic about this. There's no telling what she might pull."
"I know that very well." Riser said. "Still, even she understands the responsibilities we must bear as fellow members of the seventy-two Pillars. She'll come around soon enough. If she doesn't…well, we'll have to force the issue then, no?"
Riser conjured a fireball and shot it at a nearby tapestry, turning it to ash almost instantly.
"Show-off…"
Ravel muttered as she followed after her brother, who was letting out a low chuckle.
This concludes Chapter 15. First, in response to your questions.
—To Rai of bladeedge: About Takeshi getting jewels from the Boosted Gear and Divine Dividing, it might be possible at a great cost to himself and his lifespan. However, he won't do it. Like I've said before, with what he has and what will obtain, he's got more than enough power without adding more on top of it.
With this, the third arc has come to an end. Regarding the Tarshish war machine that debuted here, its appearance is a mix between the mobile armor Sid from Gundam AGE and the mobile armor Hashmal from Iron-Blooded Orphans. It was mounted with a prototype AI and was designed to take advantage of Pandora's abilties by using the Spirits she attracts as a power source, but was outmatched in the end.
Next is the made-up trait of the Gremory clan, Lock Control. In canon, the Gremory clan trait is never specified, and was only alluded to be some sort of heightened magic control. Since that seems kind of basic for such a renowned Pillar, I went with an original ability here. The primary inspiration was Mukuro Hoshimiya from Date A Live. Of course, Rias is incapable of doing something as absurd as stopping the planet's rotation like her, but there are still several ways she can use this ability. However, she still requires a lot of practice with it before she can wield it without repercussions.
Pandora has also joined Rias's Peerage, though her piece might not be what everyone expected. The in-universe reason is that Rias figured that a spellcaster with high speed would be an interesting combination. My reason is that I want Rossweisse and Xenovia to have pieces that more accurately reflect their specializations, the Bishop and the Rook respectively.
Well, that's all for now. The next chapter will start the Phenex arc, which is a direct consequence of Takeshi's actions and Rias taking the fall for him here. I never understood why the Gremory family felt the need to rush the engagement in canon other than plot, which is why I've given them a legitimate reason to do so here as will be explained in the next chapter. As always, please, read, review, favorite and follow, but most of all enjoy!
See you all next time!